By IANS,
New York : The Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (Gopio) has honoured a US Congressman as ‘Friend of India’ for his outstanding achievements and services to the Indian American community.
Congressman Christopher Shays was felicitated at the second anniversary celebration of Gopio’s Connecticut chapter Sunday.
Deputy Consul General Ajai Gondane made a presentation to the Republican Congressman from Connecticut on behalf of the Indian consulate in New York.
Accepting the honour, Shays said: “The Indian American community has made a major contribution to the economic growth of America.”
He further added that Indo-US relations would be very close in future as both nations stand for democratic principles.
Earlier, Connecticut State Senator Andrew McDonald, who is also the deputy majority leader, complimented the Indian American community for their contribution to the state.
Three Indian Americans were also honoured at the event attended by nearly 250 people. They were Nayan Chanda of Yale University for his accomplishments and contributions to arts and letters, Prasad Srinivasan for his community service and Sameer Ahuja as “Young Professional of the Year”.
Gopio International chairman Thomas Abraham said on the occasion: “There is wide support for Gopio all over the world with new chapters being launched in various cities.”